Milk, cookies and short stories

A new voluntary organisation called Exchange Words has been in operation in Dublin for about three months. Its main objective is promoting arts and culture. Members meet every fortnight in their venue in Temple Bar to discuss how the space will be used and it facilitates a wide range of performances whether its story telling, acting or debate and discussion.

Out of this sprang Milk and Cookies, which takes place monthly. Here, people get together and share their own stories or stories they have read and feel attached to. You can read to the group or just sit in the corner and gorge on hot chocolate and biscuits. Either way it’s something fun to do on a winter’s night.

What seems so special about the night was that it was getting back to basics; forget television or Facebook, the people who come here are looking for a laugh in a laid back fun atmosphere where you can kick off your shoes and get really cosy in this intimate setting. It’s getting in touch with tradition where people sat around and told stories as a way to entertain themselves. What is so good about Milk and Cookies is its simplicity and it is an alcohol-free environment; killing the age-old idea that one needs alcohol to enjoy oneself.

The main thing to bear in mind with this event is that it is about sharing something that you think is special with others. It’s an exchange of stories. But getting involved doesn’t mean that you’re just there to tell a story. Web designer Sarah Quigley volunteered her artistic skills for the night and designed a poster for the event. Becoming involved means showcasing any talent you may wish to share.

Milk and Cookies is an example of the innovative thinking that exists in Dublin. People are so worried about money that some have forgotten how to enjoy themselves. Milk and Cookies is a way to forget about the more serious things in life and just have a good time, even if it’s only for a couple of hours.

So if you feel like giving the television a miss for a night go along, and you won’t be disappointed. Go hear some stories read or share one you have written yourself, and most importantly, try the cookies.